Chanhassen vs Duluth: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Chanhassen, MN and Duluth, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chanhassen, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,120▲ | $93,132 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.17▲ | $44.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,187 | $70,788▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,502 | $79,001▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $122,780▲ | $103,270 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $149,058▲ | $133,806 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 230▲ |
Verdict
Chanhassen, MN offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Duluth.
The salary gap between Chanhassen and Duluth is $4,988 (5.36%). Chanhassen's median is -8.43% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chanhassen spans $78,871,Duluth spans $63,018. Chanhassen has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Duluth ($104,916 effective) pays 5.32% more than Chanhassen ($99,614 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chanhassen if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,120/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,058)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,916)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Chanhassen grew -3.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.3% growth in Duluth over the same period.
Chanhassen, MN
$98,645 (2024) → $95,336 (2025)
Duluth, MN
$73,990 (2019) → $90,490 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chanhassen, MN
Duluth, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Chanhassen or Duluth?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chanhassen and Duluth?
Should I relocate from Chanhassen to Duluth as a mechanical engineer?
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Related Comparisons
Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov